Caregiving in a Continuing Care Retirement Community

Ora and Rhoda Mast first met on the campus of Eastern Mennonite College in Harrisonburg, Virginia. They had their first date seven years later when Rhoda was in her third year of teaching at Pequea Valley High School and Ora was working for Pan American World Airways at Kennedy Airport in New York City. “After the first date, I knew he was the one,” said Rhoda. Today Rhoda and Ora’s love is as strong as ever and thriving at Brethren Village, a continuing care retirement community in Lititz, PA.

When planning for long-term care, Ora and Rhoda prioritized a continuing care retirement community that would offer adaptable care services as they aged. After a welcoming experience on campus, they knew Brethren Village was the right place to call home. “We noticed how often individuals meeting on campus greeted one another,” Rhoda said. “This gave us an at home feeling right away.” In 2019, the Masts moved into their cottage, eager to begin the next chapter of their lives in a community where they could enjoy their retirement years with peace of mind.

As Ora’s care needs evolved, Rhoda stepped into the role of his caregiver. Although each day is different, she finds herself learning along the way. One day, as Rhoda was reading the Brethren Village Daily News, she noticed an advertisement for a Caregiver Support Group and felt encouraged to attend.

A Community for Caregivers

The Caregiver Support Group is one of several groups organized by the Brethren Village Community Life Team. Its purpose is to provide a space for Resident caregivers to discuss their experiences, share challenges, and find encouragement. During these meetings, those being cared for can take part in an activity led by staff.

Brooke Snyder, Community Life Social Worker, facilitates the support group every third Monday of the month and has seen firsthand the impact these gatherings have. “The Caregiver Support group is a time where Resident caregivers can freely share their experiences, concerns, and solutions while learning, listening, and laughing together,” Brooke said. While each session lasts an hour, the connections formed extend far beyond the group itself.

For Rhoda, the shared experiences have created a deep sense of comfort throughout her caregiving journey. “In these meetings we don’t have to be careful of wording something exactly right,” Rhoda said, “because we understand each other and what is said.” Rhoda encourages others involved in family caregiving to seek resources available to them. She has learned that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of, especially with a supportive community ready to help.

Why a Continuing Care Retirement Community Matters

The care the Masts have found at Brethren Village highlights the unique experience of living in a continuing care retirement community. For Rhoda and Ora, the journey is not just about managing health needs; it is about being part of a vibrant community that helps them face life’s challenges together. “It is a blessing to have this community here at Brethren Village,” Rhoda said.

If you are a caregiver or know someone who could benefit from the support of a continuing care retirement community, Brethren Village invites you to schedule a tour by filling out a request info form or contacting our Marketing Department at 717-581-4227.